Essex is a fascinating county to live in and visit but what do you really know about Essex? Here are 20 interesting facts about Essex which may shock or surprise you:
1. It is reported that there are more speed cameras per liner mile in Essex than in anywhere else in the world however there has been no confirmation this is related to Essex having more speeding drivers than anywhere else in the world.
2. While there is no doubt that a certain reality TV show has helped spread the word about Essex, a number of businesses have cited it as a deterrent to tourists and it is believed that a number of “skilled professionals” have decided against moving to the area due to the impact of the show.
3. While it hasn’t been officially confirmed, Manningtree claims to be the smallest town in England with an area of just over 19 hectares (47 acres).
4. With respect to roads that are designated as country lanes, Essex comes second to Devon.
5. While many people view Essex as being a party county, it has been the place where a number of talented artists have honed their skills. Acts like Depeche Mode, Alison Moyet and The Prodigy all call Essex ‘home’.
6. The famous Clinton Cards shop was founded in Loughton.
7. In the Middle Ages, Essex played host to a large volume of “witch trials”
8. The largest coastline in the United Kingdom, clocking in at 350 miles, can be found in Essex.
9. St Andrews in Greenstead is believed to be the oldest wooden church in the world and was built in 1081.
10. Little Scarlet strawberries are not found in too many places around the world but they are located in Tiptree. This style of strawberry is grown at the Wilkin and Sons farm, and they use it in their world famous jams.
11. The first ever radio broadcast in the world was made in June 1920 and it took place in Chelmsford.
12. While greyhound racing is the most common form of racing at Romford Greyhound track, the venue once hosted cheetah racing in an attempt to attract more visitors and make money.
13. One of the largest greens in Britain is located in Great Bentley, clocking in at 43 acres.
14. Great Bentley has also been named the Village Of The Year on numerous occasions.
15. Famous people to halo from Essex include Dame Helen Mirren, comedian Joe Pasquale and Mark Foster, the Olympic swimmer.
16. The very first capital city in Britain was Colchester and this town is also regarded as the oldest recorded town in Britain.
17. The largest free air show in the whole of Europe is hosted in Southend.
18. The Southend Air Show was cancelled in 2013 to save money but volunteers raised enough funds to see it return in 2015.
19. The largest turf maze in the world can be found at Saffron Walden and the maze is believed to be more than 800 years old.
20. The oldest battlefield in Britain is found in Essex at Northey Island where the Battle of Maldoon occurred in 991.
Book a Valuation
Or call us today on
01245 500599